Autologous Tissue Flaps Research Articles

Reconstrução mamária após mastectomia e os desafios contemporâneos – Investigação das tendências em reconstrução mamária

Introduction: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a crucial part of the recovery process for women who have faced breast cancer. However, trends in this field are constantly evolving, with new surgical techniques, technological advancements, and a deeper understanding of aesthetic and functional outcomes. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the different breast reconstruction approaches and techniques available, to evaluate the aesthetic, functional, and psychological outcomes of the different reconstruction options, to identify the challenges faced by patients, including emotional, financial, and access to health care aspects, and to investigate recent innovations and emerging trends in breast reconstruction. Methods: The present research involved a review of the scientific literature of the last 3 years, analyzing articles from medical journals, systematic reviews, cohort studies and randomized clinical trials related to the theme. The MEDLINE database was used with the aid of the PubMed search platform and descriptors in English to include global studies in the final search. Results: The results showed a wide range of options available for breast reconstruction, including breast implants, autologous tissue flaps, such as the use of the latissimus dorsi flap and the rectus abdominis flap, and combined reconstruction techniques. An increase in the use of nipple and areola preservation techniques was observed, as well as a greater emphasis on symmetry and the natural appearance of the final result, through lipofilling. Among the challenges faced by patients are equitable access to reconstruction care, the risks associated with reconstructive surgery, and psychosocial and emotional considerations. Conclusion: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy continues to evolve, offering patients a variety of options to restore breast form and function, which are increasingly modern and have better results. Significant challenges are still present, including issues of access to healthcare, financial costs, and the psychological impact of surgery. Continued research advancement and collaboration among health professionals are essential to address these challenges and ensure that all women have access to high-quality reconstruction options and comprehensive support.

Research progress of breast reconstruction in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema

Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer have significantly improved survival rates. Breast cancer-related lymphedema is the most common mid-and long-term complication after breast cancer surgery, which seriously affects the quality of life. Breast reconstruction can not only restore the shape of the breasts after mastectomy, but also reduce the occurrence of lymphedema to some extent. Immediate autologous breast reconstruction combined with lymphatic venous anastomosis (LVA) or vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) can effectively prevent lymphedema. Delayed breast reconstruction combined with LVA or VLNT can achieve the dual benefits of restoring the appearance and treating lymphedema at the same time. The autologous tissue flap can function as a bridge to promote lymphatic drainage, thus enhancing the treatment of lymphedema. The advances mentioned above in surgical techniques have provided a basis for decision making in breast reconstruction and the prevention and treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema, and have also brought hope for improving the quality of life of patients.

Three-Dimensional Printing in Breast Reconstruction: Current and Promising Applications.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is dramatically improving breast reconstruction by offering customized and precise interventions at various stages of the surgical process. In preoperative planning, 3D imaging techniques, such as computer-aided design, allow the creation of detailed breast models for surgical simulation, optimizing surgical outcomes and reducing complications. During surgery, 3D printing makes it possible to customize implants and precisely shape autologous tissue flaps with customized molds and scaffolds. This not only improves the aesthetic appearance, but also conforms to the patient's natural anatomy. In addition, 3D printed scaffolds facilitate tissue engineering, potentially favoring the development and integration of autologous adipose tissue, thus avoiding implant-related complications. Postoperatively, 3D imaging allows an accurate assessment of breast volume and symmetry, which is crucial in assessing the success of reconstruction. The technology is also a key educational tool, enhancing surgeon training through realistic anatomical models and surgical simulations. As the field evolves, the integration of 3D printing with emerging technologies such as biodegradable materials and advanced imaging promises to further refine breast reconstruction techniques and outcomes. This study aims to explore the various applications of 3D printing in breast reconstruction, addressing current challenges and future opportunities.

Reendothelialization of Acellular Adipose Flaps under Mimetic Physiological Dynamic Conditions.

The extensive soft-tissue defects resulting from trauma and tumors pose a prevalent challenge in clinical practice, characterized by a high incidence rate. Autologous tissue flap transplantation, considered the gold standard for treatment, is associated with various drawbacks, including the sacrifice of donor sources, postoperative complications, and limitations in surgical techniques, thereby impeding its widespread applicability. The emergence of tissue-engineered skin flaps, notably the acellular adipose flap (AAF), offers potential alternative solutions. However, a critical concern confronting large-scale tissue-engineered skin flaps currently revolves around the reendothelialization of internal vascular networks. In our study, we have developed an AAF utilizing perfusion decellularization, demonstrating excellent physical properties. Cytocompatibility experiments have confirmed its cellular safety, and cell adhesion experiments have revealed spatial specificity in facilitating endothelial cells adhesion within the adipose flap scaffold. Using a novel mimetic physiological fluid shear stress setting, endothelial cells were dynamically inoculated and cultured within the acellular vascular network of the pedicled AAF in our research. Histological and gene expression analyses have shown that the mimetic physiological fluid dynamic model significantly enhanced the reendothelialization of the AAF. This innovative platform of acellular adipose biomaterials combined with hydrodynamics may offer valuable insights for the design and manufacturing of 3D vascularized tissue constructs, which can be applied to the repair of extensive soft-tissue defects. Impact Statement This study investigated reendothelialization of the acellular adipose flap (AAF) using 2D and 3D culture models in vitro. Under 2D conditions, AAF regulated endothelial cells morphology with spatial differences. A 3D mimetic physiological hydrodynamics culture model was constructed to investigate the AAF reendothelialization. Exposure of endothelial cells to physiologically fluid shear stress improved the AAF reendothelialization and increased the expression of the extracellular matrix-integrins-cytoskeleton pathway. Conversely, exposure to nonphysiological hydrodynamics and static environments decreased the reendothelialization. These findings suggest that the platform of AAF combined with physiological hydrodynamics can be applied to construct vascularized tissues to repair large-scale soft-tissue defects.

Multimodality Imaging of Postmastectomy Breast Reconstruction Techniques, Complications, and Tumor Recurrence.

For women undergoing mastectomy, breast reconstruction can be performed by using implants or autologous tissue flaps. Mastectomy options include skin- and nipple-sparing techniques. Implant-based reconstruction can be performed with saline or silicone implants. Various autologous pedicled or free tissue flap reconstruction methods based on different tissue donor sites are available. The aesthetic outcomes of implant- and flap-based reconstructions can be improved with oncoplastic surgery, including autologous fat graft placement and nipple-areolar complex reconstruction. The authors provide an update on recent advances in implant reconstruction techniques and contemporary expanded options for autologous tissue flap reconstruction as it relates to imaging modalities. As breast cancer screening is not routinely performed in this clinical setting, tumor recurrence after mastectomy and reconstruction is often detected by palpation at physical examination. Most local recurrences occur within the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Diagnostic breast imaging continues to have a critical role in confirmation of disease recurrence. Knowledge of the spectrum of benign and abnormal imaging appearances in the reconstructed breast is important for postoperative evaluation of patients, including recognition of early and late postsurgical complications and breast cancer recurrence. The authors provide an overview of multimodality imaging of the postmastectomy reconstructed breast, as well as an update on screening guidelines and recommendations for this unique patient population. ©RSNA, 2024 Test Your Knowledge questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.

Optical Breast Imaging: A Review of Physical Principles, Technologies, and Clinical Applications.

Optical imaging involves the propagation of light through tissue. Current optical breast imaging technologies, including diffuse optical spectroscopy, diffuse optical tomography, and photoacoustic imaging, capitalize on the selective absorption of light in the near-infrared spectrum by deoxygenated and oxygenated hemoglobin. They provide information on the morphological and functional characteristics of different tissues based on their varied interactions with light, including physiologic information on lesion vascular content and anatomic information on tissue vascularity. Fluorescent contrast agents, such as indocyanine green, are used to visualize specific tissues, molecules, or proteins depending on how and where the agent accumulates. In this review, we describe the physical principles, spectrum of technologies, and clinical applications of the most common optical systems currently being used or developed for breast imaging. Most notably, US co-registered photoacoustic imaging and US-guided diffuse optical tomography have demonstrated efficacy in differentiating benign from malignant breast masses, thereby improving the specificity of diagnostic imaging. Diffuse optical tomography and diffuse optical spectroscopy have shown promise in assessing treatment response to preoperative systemic therapy, and photoacoustic imaging and diffuse optical tomography may help predict tumor phenotype. Lastly, fluorescent imaging using indocyanine green dye performs comparably to radioisotope mapping of sentinel lymph nodes and appears to improve the outcomes of autologous tissue flap breast reconstruction.

A Reviewing Early Vs Later Reconstruction for Post-Mastectomy Cases

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the advantages and disadvantages of patients undergoing either immediate or delayed breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Methods: This review was compiled using information from numerous web databases. Scientific articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Data were collected, organized, and summarized. Results: Mastectomy or breast removal is frequently performed as part of breast cancer treatment. Psychological issues following a mastectomy may get better for some patients after breast reconstruction. The most common type is immediate reconstruction, which preferably uses a nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomy and implant-based reconstruction (but can also be autologous reconstruction). Delayed reconstruction is often performed using autologous tissue flaps or implant-based using either the definitive implant or temporary expanders. Conclusion: Immediate reconstruction creates better cosmetic outcomes, shorter overall costs, quicker recovery, higher quality of life, and increases the psychological well-being of patients. Besides, delayed reconstruction is a beneficial option for post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) cases and reduced the incidence of postoperative complications than immediate reconstruction.

Application of a modified lateral thoracic artery perforator flap in partial breast defects.

Breast cancer has become the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world. Detection at an early stage, frequently allows women to benefit from breast conserving surgery. However, some patients are not satisfied with the breast shape after breast-conserving surgery, and autologous tissue flaps are needed to fill the defect in the resection area. The modified lateral thoracic artery perforator (LTAP) flap isn't one of the commonly used flaps in breast surgery and has the advantages of a reliable blood supply, simple operation and few postoperative complications. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a modified LTAP flap for repairing partial breast defects after breast-conserving surgery. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 126 patients treated with LTAP flaps to repair local breast defects at Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University between January 2020 and June 2021. Data were collected on the demographic characteristics of these patients, tumor size and location, type of axillary lymph node surgery, availability of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and postoperative complications. The median weight of the tumor specimen was 185 g (range, 170-320 g), and this glandular tissue accounted for 30% to 40% of the total breast volume. The average flap size was 10.5 cm ×2.5 cm (length range, 8-15 cm, width range: 2-4 cm). The minimum follow-up time was 6 months, with an average of 10 months (range, 6-22 months). The mean operative time was 130 minutes (range: 90-180 minutes), and the mean hospital stay was 3 days (range, 2-5 days). All modified LTAP flaps survived completely without donor site complications. None of the patients required revision surgery on the postoperative breast. The modified LTAP flap is a reliable method for repairing partial breast defects after breast-conserving surgery. It has the advantages of a simple operation, a reliable blood supply, fewer postoperative complications, and a high flap survival rate. It is especially suitable for Asian women with small breast volumes and can achieve good breast contouring effects.

Techniques and Innovations in Flap Engineering: A Review.

Background:Currently, the gold standard for complex defect reconstruction is autologous tissue flaps, with vascularized composite allografts as its highest level. Good clinical results are obtained despite considerable obstacles, such as limited donor sites, donor site morbidity, and complex operations. Researchers in the field of tissue engineering are trying to generate novel tissue flaps requiring small or no donor site sacrifice. At the base of existing technologies is the tissue’s potential for regeneration and neovascularization.Methods:A review was conducted identifying relevant published articles in PubMed on the subject of flap engineering, with the focus on plastic surgery. This review article surveys contemporary technologies in flap engineering, including cell sheet technology, prefabricated flaps, and tissue engineering chambers.Conclusions:Some of the described procedures, though not yet ready for clinical use, are certainly ready for trial in large animal models and even human studies. Tissue engineering is a promising field for the handling of large and complex tissue defects.

Effects of comprehensive treatment of infected wounds in patients with iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome

Objective: To investigate the characteristics and comprehensive treatment of infected wounds in patients with iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From May 2012 to December 2021, the data of 19 patients with iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome discharged from the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were collected, including 8 males and 11 females, aged 28-71 (56±11) years, with 12 cases of infected acute wounds and 7 cases of infected chronic wounds. The lesions were located in the limbs, perianal, and sacrococcygeal regions, with original infection ranging from 9 cm×5 cm to 85 cm×45 cm. After admission, the patients were performed with multidisciplinary assisted diagnosis and treatment, and the wounds were treated with debridement and vacuum sealing drainage, according to the size, severity of infection, suture tension, and bone and tendon tissue exposure of wounds, direct suture or autologous skin and/or artificial dermis and/or autologous tissue flap transplantation was selected for wound repair. The levels of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) of patients at 8:00, 16:00, and 24:00 within 24 h after admission were counted. After admission, the number of operations, wound repair methods, and wound and skin/flap donor site healing of patients were recorded. During follow-up, the wounds were observed for recurrent infection. Results: The cortisol levels of 16 patients at 8:00, 16:00, and 24:00 within 24 h after admission were (130±54), (80±16), and (109±39) nmol/L, respectively, and ACTH levels were (7.2±2.8), (4.1±1.8), and (6.0±3.0) pg/mL, respectively; and the other 3 patients had no such statistical results. After admission, the number of surgical operation for patients was 3.4±0.9. The following methods were used for wound repair, including direct suturing in 4 cases and autologous skin and/or artificial dermis grafting in 9 cases, of which 2 cases underwent stage Ⅱ autologous skin grafting after artificial dermis grafting in stage Ⅰ, and 6 cases had pedicled retrograde island flap+autologous skin grafting. The wound healing was observed, showing that all directly sutured wounds healed well; the wounds in 6 cases of autologous skin and/or artificial dermis grafting healed well, and the wounds in 3 cases also healed well after the secondary skin grafting; the flaps in 4 cases survived well with the wounds in 2 cases with distal perforators flap arteries circumfluence obstacle of posterior leg healed after stage Ⅱ debridement and autologous skin grafting. The healing status of skin/flap donor sites was followed showing that the donor sites of medium-thickness skin grafts in the thigh of 4 cases were well healed after transplanted with autologous split-thickness grafts from scalp; the donor sites of medium-thickness skin grafts in 3 cases did not undergo split-thickness skin grafting, of which 2 cases had poor healing but healed well after secondary skin grafting 2 weeks after surgery; the donor sites of split-thickness skin grafts in the head of 2 patients healed well; and all donor sites of flaps healed well after autologous skin grafting. During follow-up of more than half a year, 3 gout patients were hospitalized again for surgical treatment due to gout stone rupture, 4 patients were hospitalized again for surgical treatment due to infection, and no recurrent infection was found in the rest of patients. Conclusions: The infected wounds in patients with iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome have poor ability to regenerate and are prone to repeated infection. Local wound treatment together with multidisciplinary comprehensive treatment should be performed to control infection and close wounds in a timely manner, so as to maximize the benefits of patients.

Additively manufactured macroporous chambers facilitate large volume soft tissue regeneration from adipose-derived extracellular matrix

Breast tissue engineering is a promising alternative intervention for breast reconstruction. Due to their low immunogenicity and well-preserved adipogenic microenvironment, decellularized adipose tissue (DAT) can potentially regenerate adipose tissue in vivo. However, the volume of adipose tissue regenerated from DAT can hardly satisfy the demand for breast reconstruction. Tissue engineering chamber (TEC) is an effective technique for generation of large adipose tissue volumes. However, TEC applications necessitate reoperation to remove non-degradable plastic chambers and harvest autologous tissue flaps, which prolongs the operation time and causes potential damage to donor sites. We improved the TEC strategy by combining bioresorbable polycaprolactone (PCL) chambers and decellularized adipose tissues (DAT). A miniaturized porous PCL chamber was fabricated based on scaling differences between human and rabbit chests, and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-loaded DAT successfully prepared. In rabbit models, a highly vascularized adipose tissue that nearly filled up the PCL chamber (5 mL) was generated de novo from 0.5 mL bFGF-loaded DAT. The newly formed tissue had significantly high expressions of adipogenic genes, compared to the endogenous adipose tissue. The concept described here can be exploited for breast tissue engineering. Statement of significanceDecellularized adipose tissue (DAT), which provides infiltrated cells adipogenic microenvironment, can potentially regenerate adipose tissue in vivo. Nevertheless, the volume of regenerated adipose tissue is insufficient to repair large sized tissue defect. Tissue engineering chamber (TEC) could provide a protective space for in situ regeneration of large volume tissue. Herein, a new strategy by combining biodegradable polycaprolactone chambers and basic fibroblast growth factor-loaded decellularized adipose tissue is proposed. In rabbit model, newly formed adipose tissue regenerated from DAT successfully filled the dome shaped chamber with ten folds higher volume than DAT, which is proportionally similar to women breast. This work highlighted the importance of adipogenic microenvironment and protective space for adipose tissue regeneration.

Progress in the application of pedicled autologous tissue in the repair of urethrorectal fistula

The treatment of urethrorectal fistula remains challenging due to its rarity and complexity. The traditional operation mainly uses simple fistula repair, but the recurrence rate is high and the effect is poor. In recent years, a number of clinical retrospective studies have proved the feasibility of placing various kinds of pedicled tissue flap between the rectum and urethra, and its application has provided a new solution for the treatment of urethral rectal fistula, and achieved satisfactory results. Compared with traditional fistula repair, pedicled tissue flap has sufficient tissue thickness and clear blood supply, which makes up for the thin tissue and poor blood supply of urethral anastomosis and rectal fistula in traditional surgery, and significantly reduces the postoperative recurrence rate of urethral rectal fistula. On the other hand, there are differences in surgical approaches due to the different etiology, location, size of fistula mouth, and doctors' preferences. The anatomy and blood supply of all kinds of autologous pedicled tissue flaps also determine their clinical application. As a common disease of urology and colorectal surgery, the multidisciplinary collaboration of consultation and treatment has brought more options for the management of urethral rectal fistula. Based on this, in this paper, the application of various pedicled autologous tissues in the repair of urethrorectal fistula is reviewed, and different types of tissues are classified according to the surgical approach. The anatomy, blood supply, clinical application, indications, advantages and disadvantages of commonly used autogenous pedicled tissue are discussed in order to provide some reference for the repair of urethrorectal fistula.

Double Layer Lateral Crural Perichondrial Flap for Coverage and Stabilization of Tip Graft.

Tip plasty is the most important step of rhinoplasty. To achieve symmetrical cartilages with ideal tip rotation, projection and supratip break many techniques were defined. Besides suture techniques, tip grafts still maintain their importance and widely used among surgeons. However, graft visibility and distortion are the main drawbacks of this technique. In this study double-layered lateral crural perichondrial flap technique was introduced to prevent graft visibility and distortion as a novel technique. A total of 16 patients who underwent rhinoplasty with this novel technique were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patient satisfaction was assessed with Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation Questionnaire (ROE-Q). Graft visibility and asymmetry of tip defining point as an indicator of graft distortion were evaluated by two independent Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic surgeons. Pre and postoperative photographs were taken and used for evaluation. A three-point Likert scale was used for assessment. Cohen's Kappa statistic and percent agreement test were usedtotest inter-rater reliability RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 15 months (ranging between 12 and 19 months). According to the ROE-Q score, the mean total preoperative score was 6,25 and the mean total postoperative score was 18,06 (p<0,05). No or minimal evident graft visibility and asymmetry of tip defining point was observed in 12 patients and 10 patients, respectively. Mild evident graft visibility was observed in only 1 patient with thin skin. Severe evident graft visibility or asymmetry of tip defining point was not observed in none of the patients. The double-layer crural perichondrial flap was an effective and sufficient method for preventing graft visibility and graft distortion. Features like easy and fast flap elevation, no additional comorbidity, being autologous tissue and sufficient flap length and thickness make this technique valuable and useful. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Acellular dermal matrices in breast reconstruction: a narrative review and institutional perspective

: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is commonly undertaken in patients inappropriate for breast conserving surgery, women who are at high genetic risk for breast cancer or otherwise based on patient preference. Current breast reconstruction techniques are diverse and may involve the use of an autologous tissue flap, tissue expanders or definitive implants. Regardless of the technique used, the use of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) has become increasingly prevalent. The increased uptake of ADMs has led to a paradigm shift in breast reconstruction. This has led to a proliferation of new products and materially contributed to increased rates of pre-pectoral reconstruction. Single-stage and two-stage breast reconstruction remain a contentious issue with increasing evidence justifying direct-to-implant reconstruction in well selected patients with ADMs. ADMs are able to provide solutions to a multitude of issues surrounding inadequate tissue coverage and support, such as implant rippling, implant migration and capsular contracture. This review outlines an overview of the history of ADMs, commonly used ADMs and addresses the evidence with respect to known complications of ADMs. A number of product alternatives to ADMs are explored and an analysis of materials and characteristics are also provided. Notwithstanding cheaper costs of manufacturing these products may offer comparable outcomes. Ultimately this narrative review provides an institutional insight into breast reconstruction in a high volume Australian centre routinely employing ADMs. Important adjuncts such as indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) have enhanced outcomes in our practice facilitating the identification of patients likely to benefit from staged expander based reconstruction.

Implants versus autologous tissue flaps for breast reconstruction following mastectomy

Implants versus autologous tissue flaps for breast reconstruction following mastectomy

Chirurgie secondaire des reconstructions mammaires par prothèses. Évaluation de la satisfaction des patientes selon la technique chirurgicale : conservation d’implant vs conversion autologue

Breast reconstruction with implants has long-term disadvantages and is leading an increasing number of patients to request secondary corrective surgery. Two surgical strategies are possible: implant replacement (associated with capsulectomy/capsulotomy and/or lipofilling procedures) and implant removal associated with the provision of autologous tissue (flap and/or lipofilling). Between 2010 and 2018, 54 patients underwent secondary surgery for correction of a first implant breast reconstruction. The reasons for dissatisfaction with the initial reconstruction, the procedures performed, and postoperative complications were analysed. Patient well-being and satisfaction were evaluated using the BREAST-Q questionnaire. Thirty-four patients benefited from a prosthesis change and 20patients benefited from a permanent removal of their prosthesis combined with the addition of autologous tissue. The presence of a periprosthetic shell, pain, fixed appearance of the breast and breast asymmetry were the most frequent reasons for dissatisfaction. With a mean follow-up of 2.6years, autologous conversion patients were generally more satisfied with the appearance of their breasts than patients who retained a breast implant (P<0.0001). In cases of poor esthetic or functional outcomes of implant-based breast reconstruction, removal of the prosthesis in combination with autologous reconstruction provides better results in terms of well-being and satisfaction than implant replacement.

The influence of mastectomy and reconstruction on residual upper limb function in breast cancer survivors.

Breast cancer survivorship is common (90% of women survive 5 or more years), but many women are not able to return to full function and well-being after treatment due to functional limitations, persistent pain, and inability to perform daily activities. Since each surgical reconstructive option (e.g., autologous tissue flaps versus implants) can impact shoulder and arm function differently, it is important to understand how shoulder and upper limb strength, mobility, and function are influenced by the type of surgical intervention. Efforts can then focus on prehabiliation strategies to prevent the onset of limitations and on developing rehabilitation protocols that directly target shortcomings. The current paper presents a review summarizing how shoulder and upper limb function may be affected by surgical mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Mastectomy and breast reconstruction with implants or autologous tissues present different functional outcomes for patients. Each surgical procedure is associated with unique sequelae derived from the tissues and procedures associated with each surgery. Characterizing the specific functional outcomes associated with each surgical approach will promote the development of targeted rehabilitation strategies that can be implemented into a multidisciplinary treatment planning pathway for breast cancer patients. Surgical treatments for breast cancer, including mastectomy and breast reconstruction, can have negative effects. Focused efforts are needed to better understand treatment-specific effects so that targeted rehabilitation can be developed to improve patient function, QoL, and ability to return to work and life activities post-breast cancer.

Sellar Defect Reconstruction with Vascularized Superior Turbinate Mucosal Flaps in Endonasal Endoscopic Transsellar Approach

The pedicled nasoseptal flap (NSF) constitutes the primary reconstructive option for most skull base defects in endonasal endoscopic approaches. The superior nasal turbinate (ST) has received little attention. We report our preliminary experience with the use of the ST mucosal flap in selected cases. We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent endonasal endoscopic approaches and identified 9 patients who were reconstructed with vascularized ST mucosal flaps as part of a double-layer or triple-layer reconstruction. When there was no intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, we used a double-layer technique. If there was an intraoperative CSF leak, regardless of the quality of leakage, we preferred a triple-layer repair technique. In patients with high-flow leaks, triple-layer repair was performed using only autologous tissue grafts and flaps. Intraoperative CSF leaks were noted in 7 of 9 patients. Among them, 4 patients had low-flow CSF leaks (grade 1 and 2) and 3 patients had high-flow CSF leaks (grade 3). All reconstructions had complete defect coverage with the ST flaps and NSFs were preserved. All the flaps were viable at 4 weeks without a CSF leak or complication at the reconstruction site. There was no contraction or partial loss of the flap. After a mean follow-up period of 9 months, none of the patients required a flap revision, developed a mucocele, infection, or other complication. An ST flap can be used for the vascularized reconstruction of sellar defects if it is bilaterally available. This option should not be overlooked and wasted.

Feasibility of a subcutaneous gluteal turnover flap without donor site scar for perineal closure after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer

BackgroundAbdominoperineal resection (APR) carries a high risk of perineal wound morbidity. Perineal wound closure using autologous tissue flaps has been shown to be advantageous, but there is no consensus as to the optimal method. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a novel gluteal turnover flap (GT-flap) without donor site scar for perineal closure after APR.MethodsConsecutive patients who underwent APR for primary or recurrent rectal cancer were included in a prospective non-randomised pilot study in two academic centres. Perineal reconstruction consisted of a unilateral subcutaneous GT-flap, followed by midline closure. Feasibility was defined as uncomplicated perineal wound healing at 30 days in at least five patients, and a maximum of two flap failures.ResultsOut of 17 potentially eligible patients, 10 patients underwent APR with GT-flap-assisted perineal wound closure. Seven patients had pre-operative radiotherapy. Median-added theatre time was 38 min (range 35–44 min). Two patients developed a superficial perineal wound dehiscence, most likely because of the excessive width of the skin island. Two other patients developed purulent discharge and excessive serosanguinous discharge, respectively, resulting in four complicated wounds at 30 days. No flap failure occurred, and no radiological or surgical reinterventions were performed. Median length of hospital stay was 10 days (IQR 8–12 days).ConclusionsThe GT-flap for routine perineal wound closure after APR seems feasible with limited additional theatre time, but success seems to depend on correct planning of the width of the flap. The potential for reducing perineal morbidity should be evaluated in a randomised controlled trial.

Bio-engineering a tissue flap utilizing a porous scaffold incorporating a human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cell capillary network connected to a vascular pedicle

Tissue flaps are used to cover large/poorly healing wounds, but involve complex surgery and donor site morbidity. In this study a tissue flap is assembled using the mammalian body as a bioreactor to functionally connect an artery and vein to a human capillary network assembled from induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (hiPSC ECs). In vitro: Porous NovoSorb™ scaffolds (3 mm × 1.35 mm) were seeded with 200,000 hiPSC ECs ± 100,000 human vascular smooth muscle cells (hvSMC), and cultured for 1–3 days, with capillaries formed by 24 h which were CD31+, VE-Cadherin+, EphB4+, VEGFR2+ and Ki67+, whilst hvSMCs (calponin+) attached abluminally. In vivo: In SCID mice, bi-lateral epigastric vascular pedicles were isolated in a silicone chamber for a 3 week ‘delay period’ for pedicle capillary sprouting, then reopened, and two hiPSC EC ± hvSMCs seeded scaffolds transplanted over the pedicle. The chamber was either resealed (Group 1), or removed and surrounding tissue secured around the pedicle + scaffolds (Group 2), for 1 or 2 weeks. Human capillaries survived in vivo and were CD31+, VE-Cadherin+ and VEGFR2+. Human vSMCs remained attached, and host mesenchymal cells also attached abluminally. Systemically injected FITC-dextran present in human capillary lumens indicated inosculation to host capillaries. Human iPSC EC capillary morphometric parameters at one week in vivo were equal to or higher than the same parameters measured in human abdominal skin. This ‘proof of concept’ study has demonstrated that bio-engineering an autologous human tissue flap based on hiPSC EC could minimize the use of donor flaps and has potential applications for complex wound coverage. Statement of SignificanceTissue flaps, used for surgical reconstruction of wounds, require complex surgery, often associated with morbidity. Bio-engineering a simpler alternative, we assembled a human induced pluripotent stem cell derived endothelial cell (hiPSC ECs) capillary network in a porous scaffold in vitro, which when transplanted over a mouse vascular pedicle in vivo formed a functional tissue flap with mouse blood flow in the human capillaries. Therefore it is feasible to form an autologous tissue flap derived from a hiPSC EC capillary network assembled in vitro, and functionally connect to a vascular pedicle in vivo that could be utilized in complex wound repair for chronic or acute wounds.